Britain has expelled Russia's defense attaché, Maxim Elovik, over spying allegations, as part of a series of measures aimed at disrupting Moscow's intelligence operations in the United Kingdom. The move comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
The United Kingdom has expelled Russia's defense attaché, Maxim Elovik, over allegations of spying, marking a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two countries. Home Secretary James Cleverly announced the expulsion along with a series of other measures targeting Russian intelligence gathering activities in the UK.
Elovik, a Russian colonel, is considered an "undeclared military intelligence officer" by the British government. His expulsion follows an investigation into espionage and sabotage by individuals acting on behalf of Russia in London.
The UK government has also revoked the diplomatic status of several Russian-owned properties suspected of being used for intelligence purposes. Additionally, new restrictions have been imposed on Russian diplomatic visas and visits.
Home Secretary Cleverly stated that these measures were necessary to counter the "reckless and dangerous activities of the Russian government across Europe." He cautioned that the government expected accusations of Russophobia and conspiracy theories from Russia in response.
Russia's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, indicated that Russia would respond in kind to the expulsion. The UK-Russia relationship has been strained for several years, with allegations of targeted killings, espionage, and cyberattacks attributed to Russian agents.
Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the UK has sanctioned hundreds of wealthy Russians and taken steps to curb money laundering through London's property and financial markets. The government cited allegations of Russian attempts to sabotage military aid for Ukraine in Germany and Poland, as well as spying and disinformation activities.
Foreign Secretary David Cameron stated that the measures were an "unequivocal message" to Russia that its actions would not go unpunished. The government condemned the alleged air space violations and jamming of GPS signals to disrupt civilian air traffic by Russia.
Elovik has been based in the UK since at least 2020. Russian state news agency Tass reported that he was summoned to the UK Defense Ministry on the day of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. He has since been seen laying flowers to Soviet soldiers who died during World War II in London and Manchester.
The expulsion of Russia's defense attaché and the targeting of intelligence gathering operations represent a significant deterioration in UK-Russia relations. The measures are a clear indication of the UK's determination to counter Russian aggression and protect its national security.
It remains unclear how Russia will respond to the latest measures. Diplomatic tensions between the two countries are likely to continue, as the UK maintains its support for Ukraine and Russia faces international condemnation for its actions.
